Summary of Reddit Comments on Electric Retrofit Bikes

Advice on DIY Electric Bike Conversion

• A user humorously mentioned juicing up their bike with a 60V battery and wings to send it down a hill, emphasizing the fun in customizing electric bikes.
• Instructions were provided for installing a throttle on an e-bike, including buying a controller with a twist throttle on Amazon and attaching it for controllability.
• A user shared their experience of completing a DIY conversion on their commuter bike through ebikes.ca, costing around $2000. They mentioned the benefits of DIY in avoiding proprietary parts but acknowledged that buying an off-the-shelf ebike may be more cost-effective and convenient.

Recommendations and Experiences with Electric Bikes

• Some users recommended purchasing an off-the-shelf electric bike instead of retrofitting, citing cost-effectiveness and overall satisfaction.
• One user shared their positive experience with a DIY Bafang setup, highlighting the need for bike knowledge and viewing it as a hobby.
• Another user suggested looking into models like the Ariel Rider Grizzly or Super 73 for retro-mods, preferably with fat tires and a powerful motor for off-road utility.

Shop Recommendations and Product Mentions

• A recommendation was made for Liberty Cycles for bike modifications in a specific location.
• A user shared their purchase of Aventon Pace 500 electric bikes from Lenny's Bike Shop.
• Various motor and battery specifications were suggested, such as a 1000W motor, 52V battery, and 18ah for off-road utility and climbing capabilities.

Pros and Cons

• Pros of DIY conversions include customization, avoiding proprietary parts, and learning experience.
• Cons of DIY conversions may include higher costs, time investment, and the need for technical knowledge.
• Pros of off-the-shelf electric bikes include cost-effectiveness, convenience, and warranty support.
• Cons of retrofitting include potential higher costs compared to purchasing a ready-made electric bike.

This comprehensive summary offers insights into the experiences, recommendations, and considerations associated with electric retrofit bikes from Reddit comments.